MLB players, owners are close to a deal

What’s it going to take for MLB players and teams to finally bring baseball back?

Yesterday, fans felt a whirlwind of emotions as it seemed that a deal had been struck between the team owners and MLB players. Then, baseball reporters did what they do best… they brought us back down to earth just a little bit.

This time, however, don’t get too down on yourselves because both sides are indeed closer than they’ve been since this whole debacle started.

But before we go any further, let’s understand what the offer is and why it isn’t official just yet. Here’s what the offer included, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic…

Now, it seems that both sides agree to everything except the number of games currently on the table.

Here comes the good news.

According to Buster Olney of ESPN, “The difference between what MLB offered — 60 games, full pro-rated pay — vs. what would be required for 70 games and full pro-rata is basically the value of Stephen Strasburg’s contract ($245m).”

From now until October 1 there are 105 days. When you factor in 1-month of spring training and factor in traveling, that number drops to around 70 days.

If the players are willing to play 70 games in 70 days, then the owners would have to come up with an extra $245M, as Mr. Olney said. Divide that by 30 MLB teams and we’re talking approximately $8M per team, which should be totally doable.

What owners would have to grapple with, however, is that just under a week ago they offered MLB players a 72 game season. That offer did not include full prorated salaries for players. So, if they are to agree to 70 games in 70 full prorated, it would be akin to them waving the white flag of defeat.

Can they put on their big boy pants live with that? Probably, but it will only make the next CBA negotiations that much more contentious.